Old Postcards Value: Which Vintage Postcards Are Worth Money?
Value old postcards: real photo postcards, topographical views, artist-signed and holiday cards, how to date postcards and why condition and subject matter.
By Ayoub Farid · · 1 min read
Boxes of old postcards are common finds. Most sell for small amounts, but certain types and subjects are very collectible.
What collectors look for
- Real photo postcards (RPPCs): actual photographs printed on postcard stock. Street scenes, small towns, shops, transport and events are popular.
- Topographical views: specific places, especially small towns and lost buildings
- Artist-signed cards: illustrated by known artists
- Holiday cards: early decorated Halloween, Christmas and other holiday postcards
- Advertising cards
- Transportation and occupation subjects
How to date a postcard
- Divided back (message and address on the same side) came after "undivided back" cards in many countries in the early 1900s.
- Stamp box designs on real photo postcards can indicate the photo paper maker and period.
- Postmarks and stamps give a latest date.
- Printing style: linen-textured cards and later chrome (glossy color) cards belong to later periods.
Condition
Corner wear, creases, stains, writing on the picture side and trimming reduce value. Postal use is fine — in fact postmarks can add interest.
Common vs. valuable
Common tourist views from popular destinations sell cheaply. Unusual subjects, rare locations and early RPPCs are worth more.
Value them
Sort cards by subject and place. Scan interesting ones with AntiqueIQ for an identification, era and estimated value range, then check sold prices. Related: old stamps worth money and vintage Christmas ornaments.
Frequently asked questions
Are old postcards worth anything?
Most sell for small sums; real photo postcards and unusual subjects can be worth more.
How can I tell a real photo postcard?
It has the glossy surface and continuous tones of a photograph, not printed dots, often with a photo paper stamp box on the back.
Should I remove stamps from old postcards?
No. Leave them — the stamp and postmark are part of the card's value.